There are many in the cigar industry that felt the FDA regulations on cigars would not be announced until a new leader of the FDA was named. According to a report on Reuters, the United States Senate is close to confirming the next leader of the Food & Drug Administration despite an opposition from several senators and a Presidential candidate.
On Monday the Senate voted 80-6 in favor of limiting debate on the matter to no more than 30 hours which prevents those who wanted to block the appointment of Dr. Robert Califf due to his stance on painkillers and his ties the pharmaceutical industry.
Prior to the appointment to lead the FDA, Dr. Califf was the Deputy Commissioner for Medical Products and Tobacco and is believed to be an expert in cardiology. It is expected that his confirmation will be announced later today.
Update: On the afternoon of February 24, 2016 Dr. Califf was officially confirmed.
